Information processing apparatus and control method

ABSTRACT

There is provided an information processing apparatus including an acquisition unit configured to acquire activity information associated with a user situation; and a control unit configured to control a capture angle of an image based on the activity information associated with the user situation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. National Phase of International PatentApplication No. PCT/JP2017/006076 filed on Feb. 20, 2017, which claimspriority benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. JP 2016-040948 filedin the Japan Patent Office on Mar. 3, 2016. Each of the above-referencedapplications is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technology relates to an information processing apparatus, acontrol method, and a program, more particularly, to an informationprocessing apparatus, a control method, and a program with which animage having an angle of view corresponding to a user situation can beobtained.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, so-called wearable terminals that users are capable ofwearing on bodies are attracting attention. The types of wearableterminal include a wristwatch type, a glasses type, a ring type, and thelike. There are also wearable terminals that are equipped with adisplay, a camera, and the like in addition to various sensors such as agyro sensor and a biological sensor.

Using the wearable terminal, the user can check information displayed onthe display or record a so-called lifelog that uses a detection resultobtained by the sensor or a photographing result obtained by the camera.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

[PTL 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-open No. 2009-118135

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

When performing photographing using a wearable terminal equipped with acamera, an angle of view is varied according to a posture of the userwearing the terminal, an environment, and the like.

Further, when a person who is near the user wearing the wearableterminal equipped with a camera notices a presence of the camera, he/shemight feel like he/she is being photographed.

The present technology has been made in view of the circumstances asdescribed above and aims at enabling an image having an angle of viewcorresponding to a user situation to be obtained.

Solution to Problem

According to an embodiment of the present technology, there is providedan information processing apparatus including an acquisition unitconfigured to acquire activity information associated with a usersituation, and a control unit configured to control a capture angle ofan image based on the activity information associated with the usersituation, wherein the acquisition unit and the control unit are eachimplemented via at least one processor.

According to another embodiment of the present technology, there isprovided an information processing control method, the method includingacquiring activity information associated with a user situation, andcontrolling a capture angle of an image based on the activityinformation associated with the user situation.

Advantageous Effects of Invention

According to the present technology, an image having an angle of viewcorresponding to a behavior of a user can be obtained. The behavioralstate may correspond to a situation of a user.

It should be noted that the effects described herein are not necessarilylimited, and any effect described in the present disclosure may beobtained.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an appearance ofan information processing terminal according to an embodiment of thepresent technology.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a wearing example of the informationprocessing terminal.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are enlarged diagrams of a tip end of a right-hand sideunit.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a photographing angle.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining a posture of a user.

FIG. 6 is another diagram for explaining the posture of a user.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged diagram of the tip end of the right-hand sideunit.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of a camera block.

FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C are perspective views showing the configuration ofthe camera block.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of the camera block fromanother direction.

FIGS. 11A and 11B are diagrams showing the configuration of the camerablock from other directions.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence in astill image photographing mode.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence in astill image continuous-photographing mode.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inan interval photographing mode.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inan auto-photographing mode.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence in amoving image shooting mode.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration example ofthe information processing terminal.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example ofthe information processing terminal.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of control information.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining photographing processing carriedout by the information processing terminal.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a control system.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing another example of the control system.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of electronic control of anangle of view.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a shape example of the informationprocessing terminal.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a camera platform.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an appearance of the information processingterminal.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the appearance of the informationprocessing terminal.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the appearance of the informationprocessing terminal.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an internal configuration example of theright-hand side unit.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an internal configuration example of aleft-hand side unit.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an arrangement example of the respectiveconfigurations.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a substrate block.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a substrate configuration of the substrateblock.

FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a wiring example of a GPS antenna.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing a connection example of the GPS antenna.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a wiring example of a BT/Wi-Fi antenna.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing a connection example of the BT/Wi-Fiantenna.

FIG. 38 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of acomputer.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described.

Descriptions will be given in the following order.

1. Appearance of information processing terminal

2. Configuration of camera block

3. Photographing modes

4. Internal configuration and operations of information processingterminal

5. Modified examples

6. Details of configuration of information processing terminal

7. Others

1. Appearance of Information Processing Terminal

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an appearance ofan information processing terminal according to an embodiment of thepresent technology.

As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing terminal 1 is a wearableterminal that has a substantial-C-shaped outer shape when seen from thefront as a whole. The information processing terminal 1 is configured bya right-hand side unit 12 and a left-hand side unit 13 respectivelyprovided on both sides of a band portion 11 obtained by inflecting athin plate-like member, on inner siders near tip ends thereof.

The right-hand side unit 12 shown on the left-hand side of FIG. 1includes a casing that is wider than the band portion 11 in a front viewand is formed to bulge out from an inner surface of the band portion 11.

On the other hand, the left-hand side unit 13 shown on the right-handside has a shape substantially symmetrical with the right-hand side unit12, with respect to a front opening of the band portion 11. Similar tothe right-hand side unit 12, the left-hand side unit 13 includes acasing that is wider than the band portion 11 in a front view and isformed to bulge out from the inner surface of the band portion 11.

The information processing terminal 1 having such an appearance is wornby being hung from a neck as shown in FIG. 2. When worn, an inner sideof a deepest portion of the band portion 11 comes into contact with aback of the neck of the user, and the information processing terminal 1is tilted forwardly. When seen from the user, the right-hand side unit12 is positioned on the right-hand side of a bottom of a throat of theuser, and the left-hand side unit 13 is positioned on the left-hand sideof the bottom of the throat of the user.

As will be described later in detail, the information processingterminal 1 includes a photographing function, a music reproductionfunction, a wireless communication function, a sensing function, and thelike.

The user can execute those functions by operating a button provided onthe right-hand side unit 12 with, for example, a right hand whilewearing the information processing terminal 1 and operating a buttonprovided on the left-hand side unit 13 with, for example, a left hand.The information processing terminal 1 also includes an audio recognitionfunction. The user can also operate the information processing terminal1 by an utterance.

Music output from a speaker provided in the right-hand side unit 12 bythe music reproduction function of the information processing terminal 1mainly reaches a right ear of the user, and music output from a speakerprovided in the left-hand side unit 13 mainly reaches a left ear of theuser.

The user can run and ride a bicycle while wearing the informationprocessing terminal 1 and listening to music. It is also possible tocause audio of various types of information such as news acquired via anetwork to be output instead of music.

As described above, the information processing terminal 1 is a terminalthat is assumed to be used during a light exercise. Since the ears arenot covered with earphones and the like, the user can listen to ambientsounds and music output from the speakers.

Referring back to FIG. 1, a curve having a circular arc surface isformed at tip ends of the right-hand side unit 12 and the left-hand sideunit 13. At the tip end of the right-hand side unit 12, an opening 12Ahaving a substantially vertically-long rectangular shape is formed froma position near the front of the upper surface to an upper position ofthe curve at the tip end. The opening 12A has a shape in which the upperleft corner is dented, and an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 22 is providedat that dented position.

A transparent cover 21 formed of acrylic or the like is fit into theopening 12A. The front surface of the cover 21 is a curve havingsubstantially the same curvature as the curve at the tip end of theleft-hand side unit 13. A lens 31 of a camera module provided inside theright-hand side unit 12 is provided at the back of the cover 21. Aphotographing direction of the camera module is a front direction of theuser when seen from the user wearing the information processing terminal1.

The user wears the information processing terminal 1 so as to be capableof photographing a scenery in the front direction as a moving image or astill image while running or riding a bicycle and simultaneouslylistening to music as described above. Further, the user can performsuch photographing hands free by an audio command as will be describedlater in detail.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are enlarged diagrams of the tip end of the right-handside unit 12.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the information processing terminal 1 iscapable of controlling an angle of view (photographing range) of animage to be photographed by varying an angle of the lens 31 in alongitudinal direction. FIG. 3A shows a state where the lens 31 isfacing downwards, and FIG. 3B shows a state where the lens 31 is facingupwards.

Specifically, the camera module including the lens 31 is attached insidethe right-hand side unit 12 in a state where the angle is electricallyadjustable.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a photographing angle.

The dashed arrow #1 is an arrow passing a center of a side surface (sidesurface of band portion 11) of the information processing terminal 1. Asindicated by solid arrows #2 and #3, the dashed arrow #1 indicating theangle of the lens 31 can be adjusted to an arbitrary angle in thelongitudinal direction. The state where the information processingterminal 1 is oblique in FIG. 4 indicates that the informationprocessing terminal 1 is being worn.

Such an angle adjustment function of the camera module is used forobtaining an image having an optimal angle of view according to abehavioral state of the user.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams for explaining a posture of the userwearing the information processing terminal 1.

FIG. 5A shows a walking state, and FIG. 5B shows a state where the useris riding a sports-type bicycle. The angle of the information processingterminal 1 varies depending on the behavioral state of the user wearingthe information processing terminal 1.

Specifically, while an upper body of the user in the walking state issubstantially upright, the upper body of the user in the bicycle-ridingstate is tilted forwardly.

The latter posture causes the information processing terminal 1 to tiltforwardly more than the former case. This means that if the angle of thecamera module is fixed, the direction of the angle of view variesdepending on the behavioral state of the user.

For example, the angle of the camera module is adjusted so as to differbetween the walking state and the bicycle-riding state. For each of thebehavioral states, the angle of the camera module is set such that animage having an optimal angle of view is obtained. The walking state canalso be referred to as upright state. The upright state includes notonly the upright walking state but also an upright substantially-stoppedstate and an upright running state. Moreover, the bicycle-riding stateincludes not only the state where the user is riding a bicycle but alsoa state where the user is at a stop while riding on a bicycle.

The information processing terminal 1 acquires a behavioral state of theuser (acquires information indicating situation of user) and performsphotographing after automatically adjusting the angle of the cameramodule without requiring a user operation on the basis of the acquiredbehavioral state. For example, when acquiring information indicatingthat the user is riding a bicycle, the information processing terminal 1adjusts the angle of the camera module to the angle indicated by thearrow #3 shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing, from the side, an upper body ofthe user wearing the information processing terminal 1 at the time theuser is riding a sports-type bicycle. In this case, assuming that anangle indicated by the dotted arrow #1 is 0 degree, the angle indicatedby the arrow #3, which is 50 degrees higher than that, becomes an angleof the camera module requisite for obtaining an image having an optimalangle of view when riding a bicycle.

The behavioral state of the user is acquired by the informationprocessing terminal 1 on the basis of an output of a sensor incorporatedin the information processing terminal 1, for example. In theinformation processing terminal 1, various sensors such as anacceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, an electronic compass, a pressuresensor, and a positioning sensor (GPS) are provided.

As described above, by adjusting the angle of the camera moduleaccording to the behavioral state, the information processing terminal 1can vary a photographing range of an image to be obtained as one unitand acquire an image having an optimal angle of view corresponding tothe behavioral state. It should be noted that one unit used hereinincludes one still image and one frame of a moving image.

Further, when not performing photographing, the information processingterminal 1 can change the angle of the camera module so as to hide thelens 31 as shown in FIG. 7. The state shown in FIG. 7 is a state wherethe lens 31 is not exposed from the opening 12A, and only the cameracover that rotates integrally with the camera module can be seen fromoutside.

Accordingly, a person near the user wearing the information processingterminal 1 does not need to be worried as to whether he/she is beingphotographed. Even when photographing is not performed while the lens 31is exposed, a person near the user wearing the information processingterminal 1 may be disturbed by the presence of the lens 31. Theconfiguration of hiding the lens 31 when photographing is not performedis a configuration that prevents others from becoming worried whiletaking privacies into consideration.

The angle of view of an image is controlled by varying the angle of thecamera module, that is, an angle of an optical axis of the lens 31.However, when the lens 31 is a zoom lens, the angle of view may becontrolled by varying a focal distance of the lens 31. Of course, it isalso possible to control the angle of view by varying both the angle ofthe optical axis and the focal distance. Optically, the photographingrange of an image is specified by the angle of the optical axis andfocal distance of the lens 31.

2. Configuration of Camera Block

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration of the camera block. Thecamera block includes the camera module, the lens 31, and the likedescribed above.

On an inner side of the cover 21 of the right-hand side unit 12, acamera cover 51 obtained by inflecting a plate-like member is provided.The camera cover 51 is provided to prevent an inside from being exposedfrom the opening 12A. An opening 51A is formed on the camera cover 51,and the lens 31 appears from the opening 51A. The camera cover 51rotates as the angle of the camera module 52 is adjusted.

The camera module 52 includes a substantially-cuboid body and isconfigured by attaching the lens 31 to an upper surface thereof. Thecamera module 52 is fixed to a frame including a rotary shaft (FIGS. 9A,9B, and 9C etc.).

Behind the camera module 52, bevel gears 53 and 54 are provided whileintermeshing with each other. The bevel gears 53 and 54 transmit powerof a subsequent motor 55 to the frame to which the camera module 52 isfixed.

The motor 55 is a stepping motor and causes the bevel gear 54 to rotateaccording to a control signal. By using the stepping motor, the camerablock can be miniaturized. Power generated by the motor 55 istransmitted to the frame to which the camera module 52 is fixed via thebevel gear 54 and the bevel gear 53. As a result, the camera module 52and the lens 31 and camera cover 51 integrated with the camera module 52rotate about the shaft of the frame.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C are perspective views showing the configuration ofthe camera block.

For example, when the user is in the walking state, the angle of thecamera module 52 is adjusted to an angle shown in FIG. 9A. The angleshown in FIG. 9A is a maximum rotation angle when a closed state of thecamera cover 51 is used as a reference, for example.

Behind the camera module 52, a camera frame 56 that rotates about ashaft 56A is provided. The camera module 52 is attached to the cameraframe 56.

When the angle is brought upwards from the state shown in FIG. 9A, thedirection of the camera module 52 becomes a state shown in FIG. 9B. Forexample, when the user is riding a bicycle, the angle of the cameramodule 52 is adjusted to an angle shown in FIG. 9B. The state shown inFIG. 9B is a state where the angle of the camera module 52 is 50 degreesas described above with reference to FIG. 6.

When the angle is additionally brought higher from the state shown inFIG. 9B to close the camera cover 51, the direction of the camera module52 becomes a state shown in FIG. 9C. In the state shown in FIG. 9C, onlythe camera cover 51 can be seen from the opening 12A via the cover 21,and the lens 31 cannot be seen. For example, the drive of the cameramodule 52 is started from the closed state shown in FIG. 9C.

The angle adjustment of the camera module 52 is carried out as describedabove. Irrespective of which angle the camera module 52 is at, adistance between an inner surface of the cover 21 and the lens 31 isalways the same.

FIGS. 10, 11A and 11B are each a diagram showing the configuration ofthe camera block from another direction.

FIG. 10 shows the respective structures at a time the camera module 52is in the state shown in FIG. 9A.

As shown in FIG. 10, the shape of the camera cover 51 is substantially asemicircle from side view. A flexible wiring 61 is connected to thecamera module 52 while passing between the camera cover 51 and thecamera frame 56. The flexible wiring 61 is formed of a material havingflexibility and used to exchange signals between the camera module 52and a substrate inside the right-hand side unit 12.

For preventing deterioration and disconnection accompanying the rotationof the camera module 52, the flexible wiring 61 is formed with a lengththat gives leeway to the distance between the camera module 52 and thesubstrate. In the state shown in FIG. 10, the flexible wiring 61 isgently valley-folded at a position behind the camera module 52.

FIGS. 11A and 11B shows the respective structures at a time the cameramodule 52 is in the state shown FIG. 9B.

As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, in this case, the camera frame 56 becomessubstantially horizontal, and a deflection of the flexible wiring 61becomes large. As shown in FIG. 11A, the deflection of the flexiblewiring 61 substantially takes an S-shape in side view.

Heretofore, the angle of the camera module 52 can be adjusted in onlythe longitudinal direction, but the angle may be adjustable in thehorizontal direction.

3. Photographing Modes

Here, photographing modes of the information processing terminal 1 willbe described.

In the information processing terminal 1, photographing modes including,for example, a still image photographing mode, a still imagecontinuous-photographing mode, an interval photographing mode, anauto-photographing mode, and a moving image shooting mode are prepared.The user can select the predetermined photographing mode to startphotographing.

<3-1. Example of Still Image Photographing Mode>

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inthe still image photographing mode.

The still image photographing mode is a mode of photographing a stillimage once. The abscissa axis of FIG. 12 represents a time. The sameholds true for FIG. 13 and subsequent figures.

At a time t1, the information processing terminal 1 detects an audiocommand that becomes a trigger of the still image photographing mode onthe basis of user audio collected using a microphone. In the exampleshown in FIG. 12, the audio as the trigger of the still imagephotographing mode is “hey take a picture”. In other words, withoutoperating buttons, the user can activate the still image photographingmode by audio.

When detecting an audio command as a trigger of the still imagephotographing mode, the information processing terminal 1 causes audiosuch as “take a picture” to be output from a speaker with sound effectsat a time t2. The information processing terminal 1 also starts lightemission of the LED 22. The light emission of the LED 22 is continued toa time t5. The light emission of the LED 22 is used to notify the userand those around the user that photographing is being performed.

At a time t3, the information processing terminal 1 opens the cameracover 51. By rotating the camera module 52 and opening the camera cover51, the information processing terminal 1 sets the camera module 52 toan initial state. By opening the camera cover 51, the lens 31 can beseen from outside.

At a time t4, the information processing terminal 1 adjusts the angle ofthe camera module 52. Specifically, the information processing terminal1 acquires a behavioral state of the user on the basis of detectionresults obtained by the various sensors. The information processingterminal 1 also adjusts the angle of the camera module 52 according tothe acquired behavioral state.

It should be noted that the angle of the camera module 52 may beadjusted such that the direction of the optical axis of the lens 31constantly becomes horizontal. In this case, the information processingterminal 1 detects a posture of the information processing terminal 1using an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and the like and adjuststhe angle of the camera module 52 according to the detected posture.

At the time t5, the information processing terminal 1 controls thecamera module 52 to perform photographing. The information processingterminal 1 outputs sound effects from the speaker along with thephotographing. Since the angle of the camera module 52 is adjusted to anangle corresponding to the behavioral state, an image acquired by thephotographing becomes an image having an optimal angle of view. Theinformation processing terminal 1 stores the photographed image (stillimage) in an internal memory.

At a time t6, the information processing terminal 1 sets back the angleof the camera module 52 and closes the camera cover 51 at a time t7. Byclosing the camera cover 51, the lens 31 cannot be seen from outside.

The photographing in the still image photographing mode is performed asdescribed above using user utterances as a trigger. By uttering voiceswhile riding a bicycle, for example, the user can photograph a sceneryin the front direction while running.

<3-2. Example of Still Image Continuous-Photographing Mode>

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inthe still image continuous-photographing mode.

The still image continuous-photographing mode is a mode of consecutivelyphotographing a still image three times.

At a time t11, the information processing terminal 1 detects an audiocommand that becomes a trigger of the still imagecontinuous-photographing mode on the basis of user audio. In the exampleshown in FIG. 13, the audio as the trigger of the still imagecontinuous-photographing mode is “hey take 3 picture”.

When detecting an audio command as a trigger of the still imagecontinuous-photographing mode, the information processing terminal 1causes audio such as “take 3 picture” to be output from the speaker withsound effects at a time t12. The information processing terminal 1 alsostarts light emission of the LED 22.

The light emission of the LED 22 is continued until a time t18 at whichthird photographing ends.

At a time t13, the information processing terminal 1 opens the cameracover 51.

At a time t14, the information processing terminal 1 acquires abehavioral state of the user and adjusts the angle of the camera module52.

At a time t15, the information processing terminal 1 controls the cameramodule 52 to perform first photographing. The information processingterminal 1 also outputs sound effects from the speaker along with thephotographing. The information processing terminal 1 stores the firstphotographed image in the internal memory.

At times t16 and t17, the information processing terminal 1 performssecond and third photographing, respectively. The information processingterminal 1 stores the second and third photographed images in theinternal memory. For example, the respective photographing are performedat certain time intervals.

The information processing terminal 1 sets back the angle of the cameramodule 52 at a time t19 and closes the camera cover 51 at a time t20.

The third photographing in the still image continuous-photographing modeis performed as described above using user utterances as a trigger.Photographing may be performed 4 times or more in the still imagecontinuous-photographing mode. The photographing may also be repeatedfor the number of times instructed by user utterances.

<3-3. Example of Interval Photographing Mode>

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inthe interval photographing mode.

The interval photographing mode is a mode of repetitively photographinga set number of still images at regular time intervals. Thephotographing interval and photographing number are set in advance.

At a time t31, the information processing terminal 1 detects an audiocommand that becomes a trigger of the interval photographing mode on thebasis of user audio. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the audio as thetrigger of the interval photographing mode is “hey interval rec”.

When detecting an audio command as a trigger of the intervalphotographing mode, the information processing terminal 1 causes audiosuch as “start interval” to be output from the speaker with soundeffects at a time t32. The information processing terminal 1 also startslight emission of the LED 22. The light emission of the LED 22 iscontinued until a time t36 at which first photographing ends.

At a time t33, the information processing terminal 1 opens the cameracover 51.

At a time t34, the information processing terminal 1 acquires abehavioral state of the user and adjusts the angle of the camera module52.

At a time t35, the information processing terminal 1 controls the cameramodule 52 to perform first photographing. The information processingterminal 1 also outputs sound effects from the speaker along with thephotographing. The information processing terminal 1 stores the firstphotographed image in the internal memory.

At a time t37 after the setting time, the information processingterminal 1 performs second photographing. The information processingterminal 1 stores the photographed image in the internal memory. Theinformation processing terminal 1 also causes the LED 22 to emit lightuntil a time t38 at which the photographing ends. The photographing asdescribed above is repeated at predetermined time intervals.

The angle of the camera module 52 in the second and subsequentphotographing may be the same as that of the first photographing or maybe readjusted according to the behavioral state of the user at the timeof photographing.

At a time t39, the information processing terminal 1 performs finalphotographing. The information processing terminal 1 stores the imageobtained by the final photographing in the internal memory. Theinformation processing terminal 1 also causes the LED 22 to emit lightuntil a time t40 at which the photographing ends.

The information processing terminal 1 sets back the angle of the cameramodule 52 at a time t41 and closes the camera cover 51 at a time t42.

The plurality of times of photographing in the interval photographingmode are performed as described above using user utterances as atrigger. Using the interval photographing mode, the user can photographsceneries at predetermined time intervals.

<3-4. Example of Auto-Photographing Mode>

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inthe auto-photographing mode.

The auto-photographing mode is a mode in which photographing is startedwhen a predetermined behavioral state is acquired. The photographinginterval and photographing number are set in advance. Further, types ofbehavioral state to become triggers for photographing in theauto-photographing mode are also set in advance. When theauto-photographing mode is set, the information processing terminal 1repetitively carries out processing of acquiring a behavioral state ofthe user.

At a time t51, the information processing terminal 1 acquires, as thebehavioral state of the user, a preset behavioral state such as acycling (riding a bicycle) state and a running state. Accordingly,photographing in the auto-photographing mode is started. The user canstart photographing by merely taking a predetermined behavior.

When acquiring a behavioral state as a trigger of the intervalphotographing mode, the information processing terminal 1 causes audiosuch as “start auto photo” to be output from the speaker with soundeffects at a time t52. The information processing terminal 1 also startslight emission of the LED 22. The light emission of the LED 22 iscontinued until a time t56 at which first photographing ends.

At a time t53, the information processing terminal 1 opens the cameracover 51.

At a time t54, the information processing terminal 1 adjusts the angleof the camera module 52 according to the behavioral state of the userspecified at the time t51.

At a time t55, the information processing terminal 1 controls the cameramodule 52 to perform first photographing. The information processingterminal 1 also outputs sound effects from the speaker along with thephotographing. The information processing terminal 1 stores the firstphotographed image in the internal memory.

At a time t57 after the setting time, the information processingterminal 1 performs second photographing. The information processingterminal 1 stores the photographed image in the internal memory. Theinformation processing terminal 1 also causes the LED 22 to emit lightuntil a time t58 at which the photographing ends. The photographing asdescribed above is repeated at predetermined time intervals.

For example, when a behavioral state different from that acquired at thetime t51 is acquired as the behavioral state of the user, thephotographing in the auto-photographing mode ends.

When a behavioral state different from that specified at the time t51 isacquired, the information processing terminal 1 sets back the angle ofthe camera module 51 at a time t59 and closes the camera cover 51 at atime t60.

The photographing in the auto-photographing mode is performed asdescribed above using the behavioral state of the user as a trigger. Bytaking a preset behavior such as riding a bicycle, the user canrepetitively photograph sceneries while that behavior is taken.

<3-5. Example of Moving Image Shooting Mode>

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a photographing sequence inthe moving image shooting mode.

At a time t71, the information processing terminal 1 detects an audiocommand that becomes a trigger of the moving image shooting mode on thebasis of user audio. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the audio as thetrigger of the moving image shooting mode is “hey start movie”.

When detecting an audio command as a trigger of the moving imageshooting mode, the information processing terminal 1 causes audio suchas “start movie” to be output from the speaker with sound effects at atime t72. The information processing terminal 1 also starts lightemission of the LED 22. The light emission of the LED 22 is continueduntil a time t76 at which shooting of a moving image ends.

At a time t73, the information processing terminal 1 opens the cameracover 51.

At a time t74, the information processing terminal 1 acquires abehavioral state of the user and adjusts the angle of the camera module52. The shooting of a moving image is carried out after the angle of thecamera module 52 is adjusted to an angle corresponding to the behavioralstate of the user.

At a time t75, the information processing terminal 1 controls the cameramodule 52 to start shooting a moving image. The information processingterminal 1 successively stores the shot moving image in the internalmemory.

At the time t76, the information processing terminal 1 detects an audiocommand such as “hey stop movie” to end shooting of a moving image onthe basis of user audio collected using a microphone.

When a predetermined button provided on the information processingterminal 1 is operated, when shooting of a moving image is continued fora predetermined time such as 5 minutes, or when there is no capacityleft in the internal memory, shooting of a moving image is similarlyended.

The information processing terminal 1 sets back the angle of the cameramodule 52 at a time t77 and closes the camera cover 51 at a time t78.

The shooting of a moving image in the moving image shooting mode isperformed as described above using user utterances as a trigger. Byuttering voices while riding a bicycle, for example, the user can shoota moving image of a scenery in the front direction while riding.

4.4. Internal Configuration and Operations of Information ProcessingTerminal

<4-1. Internal Configuration of Information Processing Terminal 1>

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration example ofthe information processing terminal 1.

In FIG. 17, the structures that are the same as those described aboveare denoted by the same reference numerals, and overlapping descriptionswill be omitted as appropriate.

An application processor 101 reads out programs stored in a flash memory102 and the like and executes them to control overall operations of theinformation processing terminal 1.

Connected to the application processor 101 are a wireless communicationmodule 103, an NFC tag 105, the camera module 52, the motor 55, avibrator 107, an operation button 108, and the LED 22. A power supplycircuit 109, a USB interface 113, and a signal processing circuit 114are also connected to the application processor 101.

The wireless communication module 103 is a module that performs wirelesscommunication conforming to a predetermined standard, such as Bluetooth(registered trademark) and Wi-Fi, with external apparatuses. Forexample, the wireless communication module 103 communicates with amobile terminal possessed by the user, such as a smartphone, to transmitimage data obtained by photographing and receive music data. A BT/Wi-Fiantenna 104 is connected to the wireless communication module 103. Thewireless communication module 103 may also be capable of performingmobile telephone communication (3G, 4G, 5G, etc.), for example, via aWAN (Wide Area Network). Not all of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, WAN, and NFC needto be mounted, and those may be mounted selectively. Modules thatrespectively perform communication using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, WAN, and NFCmay be provided as separate modules or may be provided as one module.

The NFC (Near Field Communication) tag 105 performs near fieldcommunication when an apparatus including an NFC tag comes close to theinformation processing terminal 1. An NFC antenna 106 is connected tothe NFC tag 105.

The vibrator 107 is vibrated under control of the application processor101 and notifies the user of an incoming call, mail reception, and thelike. Information indicating an incoming call is transmitted from amobile terminal of the user.

The operation button 108 includes various buttons provided on a casingof the information processing terminal 1. Signals representing contentsof operations made to the operation button 108 are supplied to theapplication processor 101.

Connected to the power supply circuit 109 are a battery 110, a powersupply button 111, an LED 112, and the USB interface 113. When the powersupply button 111 is operated, the power supply circuit 109 activatesthe information processing terminal 1 and supplies a current from thebattery 110 to the respective units. The power supply circuit 109 alsosupplies a current supplied via the USB interface 113 to the battery 110and charges it.

The USB interface 113 communicates with an external apparatus via a USBcable connected to a USB terminal. The USB interface 113 also supplies acurrent supplied via the USB cable to the power supply circuit 109.

The signal processing circuit 114 processes signals from the varioussensors and signals supplied from the application processor 101. Aspeaker 116 and a microphone 117 are connected to the signal processingcircuit 114. Also connected to the signal processing circuit 114 via abus 121 are a gyro sensor 118, an electronic compass 119, and a pressuresensor 120.

For example, the signal processing circuit 114 performs positioning onthe basis of signals supplied from a GPS antenna 115 and outputsposition information to the application processor 101. In other words,the signal processing circuit 114 functions as a GPS sensor.

The signal processing circuit 114 also acquires sensor data indicatingdetection results obtained by the sensors and outputs the sensor data tothe application processor 101. From the signal processing circuit 114,the sensor data indicating the detection results obtained by theplurality of sensors is supplied via the bus 121. On the basis of thedata supplied from the application processor 101, the signal processingcircuit 114 causes music, audio, sound effects, and the like to beoutput from the speaker 116.

The microphone 117 detects user audio and outputs it to the signalprocessing circuit 114. As described above, the information processingterminal 1 can also be operated by audio.

The gyro sensor 118, the electronic compass 119, and the pressure sensor120 respectively detect an angular velocity, direction, and pressure andoutput signals indicating the detection results to the signal processingcircuit 114 via the bus 121.

In the example shown in FIG. 17, the camera module 52, the microphone117, the gyro sensor 118, the electronic compass 119, the pressuresensor 120, and a GPS sensor (signal processing circuit 114) areprovided as the sensors that detect an external environment andsituation of the information processing terminal 1 itself. However,other sensors may also be provided. For example, an acceleration sensor,a pneumatic sensor, a proximity sensor, a biological sensor, an electricskin microphone, a geomagnetic sensor, and an inertial sensor may beprovided. The inertial sensor includes a vibration sensor, anacceleration sensor, and a gyro sensor.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example ofthe information processing terminal 1.

At least a part of the functional units shown in FIG. 18 is realized bythe application processor 101 shown in FIG. 17 executing predeterminedprograms.

In the information processing terminal 1, a behavioral state acquisitionunit 131, an angle-of-view control unit 132, and a photograph controlunit 133 are realized.

The behavioral state acquisition unit 131 acquires a behavioral state ofthe user on the basis of sensor data supplied from the signal processingcircuit 114. For example, the behavioral state acquisition unit 131includes recognition information in which behavioral states areassociated with the sensor data respectively detected at the time theuser is taking those behaviors.

When acquiring the behavioral state, the behavioral state acquisitionunit 131 references the recognition information and acquires abehavioral state associated with the sensor data as the behavioral stateof the user. The behavioral state acquisition unit 131 outputsinformation indicating the acquired behavioral state to theangle-of-view control unit 132.

The angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the cameramodule 52 according to the behavioral state acquired by the behavioralstate acquisition unit 131 and controls an angle of view of an image tobe acquired. The angle-of-view control unit 132 includes controlinformation in which the behavioral states are associated with theangles of the camera module 52.

After the angle of the camera module 52 is adjusted, the photographcontrol unit 133 controls the camera module 52 to perform photographingin the various photographing modes described above. The photographcontrol unit 133 outputs the photographed image to the flash memory 102so that the image is stored in the flash memory 102.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the control information inwhich the behavioral states are associated with angles of view.Information indicating the contents shown in FIG. 19 is managed by theangle-of-view control unit 132 as the control information.

In the example shown in FIG. 19, behavioral states of “walking”,“running”, “crouching”, “sitting on chair”, “walking up/down stairs”,“walking uphill/downhill”, “swimming”, “riding bicycle”, “riding onautomobile”, and “riding on train” are shown. As described above, stateswhere the user is riding on various vehicles other than “bicycle” may beacquired as the behavioral states.

For example, when “walking” is acquired as the behavioral state, theangle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the camera module 52so that it becomes 80 degrees above a gravity acceleration direction.

Although a reference of the angle is the gravity acceleration directionin the example shown in FIG. 19, various references such as a horizontaldirection, a casing direction indicated by the dashed arrow #1 of FIG.4, and an angle of the camera module 52 when closed can be used toexpress those angles.

Moreover, when “running” is acquired as the behavioral state, theangle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the camera module 52so that it becomes 90 degrees upward from the gravity accelerationdirection.

When the lens 31 is a zoom lens, the angle of view may be narrowed bynot only adjusting the angle but also elongating the focal distance ofthe lens 31. Instead of optically narrowing the angle of view, the angleof view may be narrowed electronically by cutting out a partial range ofa photographed image by trimming. The electronic control of the angle ofview will be described later.

The angle of the camera module 52 may also be adjusted according tovelocities instead of adjusting it based merely on the behavioral statesof “walking” and “running”.

When “crouching” is acquired as the behavioral state, the angle-of-viewcontrol unit 132 adjusts the angle of the camera module 52 so that itbecomes 30 degrees upward from the gravity acceleration direction.

In this case, optical or electronic control for narrowing the angle ofview is performed as appropriate. The crouching user is considered to befocusing on a close object below an eye level. By suppressing the angleof the camera module 52, photographing in which the object that the useris focusing on is set within the angle of view becomes possible.

When “sitting on chair” is acquired as the behavioral state, theangle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the camera module 52so that it becomes 45 degrees upward from the gravity accelerationdirection. Further, optical or electronic control for narrowing theangle of view is performed as appropriate.

When “walking up/down stairs” is acquired as the behavioral state, theangle-of-view control unit 132 closes the lens cover 51 and accommodatesthe lens 31 so that photographing cannot be performed. For example, byprohibiting photographing when walking up/down the stairs, it becomespossible to prevent the information processing terminal 1 from beingused for the purpose of camera voyeurism.

When walking up the stairs is acquired as the behavioral state, theangle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the camera module 52so that it becomes 120 degrees upward from the gravity accelerationdirection. Prohibiting photographing or adjusting the angle so that itbecomes 120 degrees upward from the gravity acceleration direction maybe selected as appropriate. Moreover, when walking down the stairs isacquired as the behavioral state, the angle-of-view control unit 132adjusts the angle of the camera module 52 so that it becomes 60 degreesupward from the gravity acceleration direction.

When walking uphill is acquired, control similar to that performed whenwalking up the stairs is performed. Further, when walking downhill isacquired, control similar to that performed when walking down the stairsis performed.

When a state of swimming at a low velocity is acquired as the behavioralstate, the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of thecamera module 52 so that it becomes 30 degrees upward from the gravityacceleration direction. The information processing terminal 1 haswaterproof performance.

Further, when a state of swimming at a high velocity is acquired as thebehavioral state, the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angleof the camera module 52 so that it becomes 90 degrees upward from thegravity acceleration direction.

When a state of riding a bicycle at a low velocity is acquired as thebehavioral state, the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angleof the camera module 52 so that it becomes 50 degrees upward from thegravity acceleration direction.

When a state of riding a bicycle at a high velocity is acquired as thebehavioral state, the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angleof the camera module 52 so that it becomes 55 degrees upward from thegravity acceleration direction.

When a state of driving a vehicle is acquired as the behavioral state,the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the cameramodule 52 so that it becomes 85 degrees upward from the gravityacceleration direction. Further, optical or electronic control fornarrowing the angle of view as compared to that in the walking state isperformed as appropriate.

The angle of view may be varied in the horizontal direction in link witha direction of the user's head. Varying the angle of view in thehorizontal direction is performed optically in a case where the angle ofthe camera module 52 can be varied in not only the longitudinaldirection but also the horizontal direction. When the angle cannot bevaried in the horizontal direction, varying the angle of view in thehorizontal direction is performed electronically.

When a state of riding on a train is acquired as the behavioral state,the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of the cameramodule 52 so that it becomes 85 degrees upward from the gravityacceleration direction and 50 degrees in the right- or left-handdirection using a predetermined direction such as a traveling directionas a reference. When a state of riding on an automobile but not drivingis acquired as the behavioral state, similar control is performed.

On the basis of the control information as described above, theangle-of-view control unit 132 performs the angle adjustment of thecamera module 52, and the like. It should be noted that the angles shownin FIG. 19 can be changed arbitrarily. As in the case where the lens 31is accommodated to prohibit photographing when “swimming” is acquired,correspondence relationships among the behavioral states and the controlcontents can be changed arbitrarily. Further, the angle may be adjustedon the basis of not only the behavioral state but also otherenvironmental information such as a posture, wearing position, andmovement velocity of the information processing terminal 1. The movementvelocity may be a movement velocity expressed by a numerical value. Thecombination of information to be used for the angle adjustment isarbitrary.

<4-2. Operation of Information Processing Terminal>

Next, photographing processing of the information processing terminal 1will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 20. Theprocessing shown in FIG. 20 is started when an audio command is detectedon the basis of user utterances, for example.

In Step S1, the behavioral state acquisition unit 131 acquires abehavioral state of the user on the basis of sensor data supplied fromthe signal processing circuit 114. Here, the various behavioral statesas those described with reference to FIG. 19 are acquired.

In Step S2, the angle-of-view control unit 132 adjusts the angle of thecamera module 52 according to the behavioral state acquired by thebehavioral state acquisition unit 131 and controls an angle of view ofan image to be acquired.

In Step S3, after the angle of the camera module 52 is adjusted, thephotograph control unit 133 controls the camera module 52 to performphotographing according to the photographing mode. The photographcontrol unit 133 stores the photographed image in the flash memory 102and ends the processing.

As described above, since the control contents of the camera module 52are determined with respect to the plurality of types of behavioralstates, the information processing terminal 1 can obtain images havingoptimal angles of view respectively corresponding to the behavioralstates.

In photographing in the still image photographing mode, for example, thebehavioral state of the user is acquired and the angle of the cameramodule 52 is adjusted every time photographing is performed. Therefore,even when the casing posture or the behavioral state of the user ischanged, the information processing terminal 1 can constantly photographan image having an optimal angle of view following those changes. It isalso possible to periodically acquire the behavioral state of the userwhile photographing is performed once in the interval photographing modeor the moving image shooting mode and adjust the angle of the cameramodule 52 every time the behavioral state is acquired.

Further, the user can operate the information processing terminal 1 byaudio without touching the information processing terminal 1.Specifically, when there is a need to operate a button duringphotographing, the behavior may need to be interrupted depending on thecontent of the operation, but comfortable and natural photographing thatdoes not require such interruption and can be performed immediatelybecomes possible. Suppressing the number of buttons is advantageous interms of securing an intensity of the casing of the informationprocessing terminal 1 and securing the waterproof performance.

5. Modified Example

5-1. Example of Control System

All of the processes of the acquisition of the behavioral state,determination of the adjustment angle, and the angle adjustment arecarried out by the information processing terminal 1, but theacquisition of the behavioral state and the adjustment angledetermination can be carried out in other apparatuses.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a control system.

The control system shown in FIG. 21 is constituted of the informationprocessing terminal 1 and a mobile terminal 201. The mobile terminal 201is a terminal such as a smartphone that is carried by the user wearingthe information processing terminal 1. The information processingterminal 1 and the mobile terminal 201 are mutually connected viawireless communication such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

The information processing terminal 1 transmits sensor data indicatingthe detection results of the sensors to the mobile terminal 201 duringphotographing. The mobile terminal 201 that has received the sensor datatransmitted from the information processing terminal 1 specifies thebehavioral state of the user on the basis of the sensor data andtransmits information indicating the behavioral state to the informationprocessing terminal 1.

The information processing terminal 1 receives the informationtransmitted from the mobile terminal 201 and acquires the behavioralstate of the user specified by the mobile terminal 201. The informationprocessing terminal 1 determines the adjustment angle corresponding tothe acquired behavioral state and adjusts the angle of the camera module52 to perform photographing.

In this case, a configuration including a function similar to that ofthe behavioral state acquisition unit 131 shown in FIG. 18 is realizedin the mobile terminal 201. Further, the angle-of-view control unit 132and the photograph control unit 133 shown in FIG. 18 are realized in theinformation processing terminal 1.

As described above, at least a part of the processing may be carried outby another apparatus different from the information processing terminal1. Not only the behavioral state acquisition but also the processing upto determining the adjustment angle of the camera module 52corresponding to the behavioral state may be carried out by the mobileterminal 201.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing another example of the control system.

The control system shown in FIG. 22 is constituted of the informationprocessing terminal 1, the mobile terminal 201, and a control server202. The mobile terminal 201 and the control server 202 are mutuallyconnected via a network 203 such as the Internet.

When the mobile terminal 201 includes a so-called tethering function,the information processing terminal 1 may be connected to the network203 via the mobile terminal 201. In this case, exchange of informationbetween the information processing terminal 1 and the control server 202is carried out via the mobile terminal 201 and the network 203.

Similar to the case described above with reference to FIG. 21, theinformation processing terminal 1 transmits sensor data indicatingdetection results of the sensors to the control server 202 duringphotographing. The control server 202 that has received the sensor datatransmitted from the information processing terminal 1 specifies thebehavioral state of the user on the basis of the sensor data andtransmits information indicating the behavioral state to the informationprocessing terminal 1.

The information processing terminal 1 receives the informationtransmitted from the control server 202 and acquires the behavioralstate of the user specified by the control server 202. The informationprocessing terminal 1 determines the adjustment angle corresponding tothe acquired behavioral state and adjusts the angle of the camera module52 to perform photographing.

In this case, a configuration including a function similar to that ofthe behavioral state acquisition unit 131 shown in FIG. 18 is realizedin the control server 202. The angle-of-view control unit 132 and thephotograph control unit 133 shown in FIG. 18 are realized in theinformation processing terminal 1.

As described above, at least a part of the processing may be carried outby an apparatus connected via the network 203. Not only the behavioralstate acquisition but also the processing up to determining theadjustment angle of the camera module 52 corresponding to the behavioralstate may be carried out by the control server 202.

5-2. Example of Electronically Controlling Angle of View

The case of optically controlling the angle of view has been mainlydescribed, but the angle of view can also be controlled electronicallyby varying a cutout range in trimming. In this case, a lens having ashort focal distance such as a fisheye lens is used as the lens 31.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of the electronic control of theangle of view.

The hemisphere shown in FIG. 23 shows an entire range to be captured bythe lens 31. The position P indicates a position of the lens 31. Itshould be noted that FIG. 23 is used for explaining a general idea ofchanging the cutout range, and the frame size, curvature, and the likeare inaccurate.

For example, when the user is walking, an image within a range indicatedby the frame F1 out of the entire image indicated by the hemisphere thathas been taken by the camera module 52, is cut out by trimming. Theimage within the range indicated by the frame F1 is acquired as an imagehaving an angle of view corresponding to the behavioral state.

Further, when the user is running, an image within a range indicated bythe frame F2 out of the entire image indicated by the hemisphere thathas been taken by the camera module 52, is cut out by trimming. Theimage within the range indicated by the frame F2 is acquired as an imagehaving an angle of view corresponding to the behavioral state.

The range of the frame F2 is set higher than the range of the frame F1.Accordingly, when the user is running, an image within the range higherthan that when walking is acquired. As described above with reference toFIG. 19 and the like, when comparing the walking state and the runningstate, an image having a higher angle of view is acquired in the lattercase.

Further, the range of the frame F2 is smaller than the range of theframe F1. By narrowing the range to be cut out by trimming, the angle ofview can be controlled similar to the case of varying the focal distanceof the zoom lens.

As described above, by electronically controlling the angle of view, amechanism for adjusting the angle of the camera module 52 does not needto be provided, and thus the information processing terminal 1 can beminiaturized. The optical control of the angle of view and theelectronic control of the angle of view can also be combined.

5-3. Specific Example of Behavioral State

The behavioral state has been acquired on the basis of sensor data.However, the behavioral state acquisition method can be changedarbitrarily.

Example that Uses Position Information

The behavioral state of the user may be acquired on the basis ofposition information detected by the signal processing circuit 114 asthe GPS sensor. In this case, the behavioral state acquisition unit 131manages information in which the position information and the behavioralstates are associated with one another.

In the information managed by the behavioral state acquisition unit 131,for example, position information of a park is associated with runningas the behavioral state. Moreover, position information of one's home isassociated with sitting, and position information of streets betweenone's home and a nearest station is associated with walking.

The behavioral state acquisition unit 131 acquires a behavioral statemanaged in association with a current position measured at the time ofphotographing, as the current behavioral state of the user. Accordingly,the information processing terminal 1 can acquire the behavioral stateof the user by measuring the current position.

Example that Uses Connection Destination Information

The behavioral state of the user may be specified on the basis of aconnection destination apparatus in wireless communication. In thiscase, the behavioral state acquisition unit 131 manages information inwhich pieces of identification information of connection destinationapparatuses are associated with behavioral states.

In the information managed by the behavioral state acquisition unit 131,for example, identification information of an access point set in a parkis associated with running as the behavioral state. Moreover,identification information of an access point set in one's home isassociated with sitting, and identification information of an accesspoint set between one's home and a nearest station is associated withwalking.

The wireless communication module 103 periodically searches for anapparatus to be a connection destination for wireless communication suchas Wi-Fi. The behavioral state acquisition unit 131 acquires abehavioral state managed in association with an apparatus that is theconnection destination at the time of photographing, as the currentbehavioral state of the user. Accordingly, the information processingterminal 1 can acquire the behavioral state of the user by searching fora connection destination apparatus.

Example that Uses Information of Proximal Apparatus

As described above, the information processing terminal 1 has thebuilt-in NFC tag 105 and is capable of performing near-fieldcommunication with a proximal apparatus. The behavioral state of theuser may be acquired on the basis of an apparatus that is in theproximity before photographing is performed. In this case, thebehavioral state acquisition unit 131 manages information in whichpieces of identification information of proximal apparatuses areassociated with behavioral states.

In the information managed by the behavioral state acquisition unit 131,for example, identification information of an NFC tag incorporated intoa bicycle is associated with riding a bicycle as the behavioral state.Further, identification information of an NFC tag incorporated into achair at one's home is associated with sitting, and identificationinformation of an NFC tag incorporated into running shoes is associatedwith running.

For example, before riding a bicycle while wearing the informationprocessing terminal 1, the user brings the information processingterminal 1 close to the NFC tag incorporated into the bicycle. Upondetecting that the information processing terminal 1 has been broughtclose to the NFC tag of the bicycle, the behavioral state acquisitionunit 131 acquires the behavioral state of the user assuming that theuser is riding the bicycle after that.

As described above, various methods can be used as the method ofacquiring a behavioral state.

5-4. Example of Terminal Shape

Example of Wearing Position

The information processing terminal 1 has been assumed to be a wearableterminal of a type that is hung from a neck. However, the function ofcontrolling an angle of view described above is also applicable tocamera-equipped wearable terminals having other shapes.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the information processingterminal having another shape.

A mobile terminal 211 shown in FIG. 24 is a wearable terminal that canbe worn at an arbitrary position of the user's body using a clipprovided on a back surface of a casing or the like. In the example shownin FIG. 24, the mobile terminal 211 is attached to a position near thechest of the user. A camera 221A is provided on a front surface of thecasing of the mobile terminal 211.

The mobile terminal 211 may be worn at other positions such as a wristand an ankle. The function of controlling an angle of view describedabove is also applicable to terminals worn at parts lower than a headwhere a posture of the terminal is determined based mainly on theposture of the upper body of the user, such as a shoulder and a waist.In this case, the content of control of the angle of view may be varieddepending on the attached position.

Further, the information processing terminal 1 and the mobile terminal211 may be used while being attached to a mount attached to a dashboardof an automobile or a mount attached to a handle of a bicycle. In thiscase, the information processing terminal 1 and the mobile terminal 211are used as a so-called drive recorder or an obstacle sensor.

Example when Applied to Camera Platform

The function of controlling an angle of view described above may beapplied to a camera platform that controls an angle of view of a camera.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of the camera platform as theinformation processing terminal.

The camera platform 231 is a camera platform capable of being attachedto a body of a user using a clip or the like. The user attaches thecamera platform 231 on which a camera 241 is mounted at predeterminedpositions such as a chest, shoulder, wrist, and ankle. The cameraplatform 231 and the camera 241 are capable of communicating with eachother wirelessly or via wires.

The camera platform 231 has a built-in application processor in additionto sensors that detect sensor data used for acquiring behavioral states.The application processor of the camera platform 231 executespredetermined programs to realize the functions described with referenceto FIG. 18.

Specifically, the camera platform 231 acquires the behavioral state ofthe user on the basis of sensor data at the time of photographing andadjusts an angle of the camera 241 according to the acquired behavioralstate. By causing photographing to be performed after the angleadjustment, the camera platform 231 controls the angle of view of animage to be photographed by the camera 241.

As described above, the function of controlling an angle of viewdescribed above is also applicable to apparatuses not including aphotographing function, such as a camera platform.

5-5. Other Examples

Parameters (angles) used for the angle adjustments respectivelycorresponding to the behavioral states may be fixed values set whendesigned or may be changed as appropriate according to differences inwearing positions, differences in physiques, differences in postureswhen riding bicycles, and the like.

The parameters may be changed automatically using a steady state such asa walking state as a reference or may be changed manually by the user,for example.

Further, although the camera block is provided in the right-hand sideunit 12, it may instead be provided in the left-hand side unit 13 or maybe provided in both of them. Moreover, the lens 31 may be provided whilefacing sideways instead of facing the front direction.

Although the camera cover 51 is closed when photographing is notperformed, it is also possible to perform a person recognition using animage obtained by the photographing and close the camera cover 51 when aperson is captured in a predetermined size or more. Accordingly, thatperson can be prevented from being photographed when approaching theuser wearing the information processing terminal 1.

It is also possible to enable the angle of view of an image to beobtained by photographing to be adjusted by user audio.

Moreover, the direction of adjusting the angle of the camera module 52may be a roll direction, a pitch direction, and a yaw direction.

As described above, the cover 21 fit into the opening 12A has a curvedsurface. Therefore, there is a possibility that resolution will belowered or an object will be distorted at edges of an image photographedby the camera 52 as compared to the vicinity of the center.

Such a partial deterioration of an image may be prevented by carryingout image processing on the photographed image. The partialdeterioration of an image may be optically prevented from occurring byvarying properties of the cover 21 and the lens 31 according topositions. Furthermore, as in differentiating pixel pitches of an imagepickup device in the camera module 52 between the vicinity of a centerand vicinity of edges of the image pickup device, the property of theimage pickup device itself may be changed.

The right-hand side unit 12 and the left-hand side unit 13 may bedetachable from the band portion 11. The user selects the band portion11 having a length corresponding to a length around his/her neck andattaches the right-hand side unit 12 and the left-hand side unit 13 tothe band portion 11 to configure the information processing terminal 1.

6. Specific Configuration of Information Processing Terminal

Next, a specific configuration of the information processing terminal 1will be described.

FIGS. 26 and 27 are each a diagram showing an appearance of theinformation processing terminal 1.

The front-view appearance of the information processing terminal 1 isshown at the center of FIG. 26. As shown in FIG. 26, a speaker hole 301is formed on a left-hand side surface of the information processingterminal 1, and a speaker hole 302 is formed on a right-hand sidesurface.

As shown in FIG. 27, the power supply button 111 and a USB terminal 311are provided on the back surface of the right-hand side unit 12. A coverformed of a resin, for example, covers the USB terminal 311.

On the back surface of the left-hand side unit 13, a custom button 312that is operated when performing various settings and a volume button313 that is operated when adjusting a volume are provided.

Further, near the tip end of the left-hand side unit 13 on the innerside thereof, an assist button 314 is provided as shown in FIG. 28. Apredetermined function such as ending shooting of a moving image isallocated to the assist button 314. The custom button 312, the volumebutton 313, and the assist button 314 correspond to the operation button108 shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an internal configuration example of theright-hand side unit 12.

The right-hand side unit 12 is configured by laminating a base member331, the GPS antenna 115, a speaker box 332, the BT/Wi-Fi antenna 104, acamera block 333, a substrate block 334, and a wiring 335 and coveringthem with an exterior case 341.

The speaker box 332 arranged while being in contact with the substrateblock 334 is formed of aluminum for releasing heat of the substrateblock 334. The BT/Wi-Fi antenna 104 and the GPS antenna 115 are arrangedwhile being deviated from the speaker box 332.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an internal configuration example of theleft-hand side unit 13.

The left-hand side unit 13 is configured by laminating a base member361, a speaker box 362, the NFC antenna 106, the battery 110, and awiring 363 and covering them with an exterior case 371.

An intra-band flexible wiring 351 that connects the configuration insidethe right-hand side unit 12 and the configuration inside the left-handside unit 13 is passed through a hollow space formed inside the bandportion 11. The band portion 11 has a tube configuration. Theconfiguration inside the right-hand side unit 12 and the configurationinside the left-hand side unit 13 may be connected by a cable harnessinstead of the flexible wiring.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an arrangement example of the respectiveconfigurations. For convenience in describing, detailed illustrations ofthe configurations are omitted in FIG. 31.

As shown in FIG. 31, in the right-hand side unit 12, the BT/Wi-Fiantenna 104 and the GPS antenna 115 are provided at positions closer tothe side surface of the information processing terminal 1 than thespeaker box 332. Further, the wiring 335 connecting the substrate block334 and the like with the intra-band flexible wiring 351 is providedalong an outer shape of the right-hand side unit 12 while avoiding thesubstrate block 334. In FIG. 31, the wiring 335 is indicated by a boldline.

On the other hand, in the left-hand side unit 13, a wiring 363connecting the battery 110 and the like with the intra-band flexiblewiring 351 is provided along an outer shape of the left-hand side unit13 while avoiding the battery 110. In FIG. 31, the wiring 363 isindicated by a bold line.

It should be noted that 4 microphones 117 are provided, for example. The4 microphones 117 are respectively provided at positions P11 to P14 eachsurrounded by a circle, for example.

As described above, a proximity sensor, a biological sensor, and anelectric skin microphone can be mounted on the information processingterminal 1. In this case, the proximity sensor that detects an approachto a human body can be provided at a position P21 shown in FIG. 31, forexample, on the band portion 11.

Further, the proximity sensor, the biological sensor, and the electricskin microphone can be provided at positions P22 and P23 near the frontof the neck when worn. Since the positions P22 and P23 are positionsnear the bulged portions of the right-hand side unit 12 and theleft-hand side unit 13 and positioned near the skin when worn,sensitivities of the sensors can be improved.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing the substrate block 334 accommodated in theright-hand side unit 12.

The substrate block 334 has a 3-layer configuration including asubstrate 401, a substrate 402, and a substrate 403. The substrates areelectrically connected to one another as shown in FIG. 33.

The substrate 401 is a substrate in which an IC chip of the signalprocessing circuit 114 is provided, and a length thereof issubstantially ⅔ the length of the substrate 402. The substrate 402 is asubstrate in which the application processor 101 is provided. Thesubstrate 403 as the lower layer is a substrate in which the wirelesscommunication module 103 is provided, and a length thereof issubstantially ⅓ the length of the substrate 402.

FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a wiring example of the GPS antenna 115.

As shown in FIG. 34, the GPS antenna 115 is constituted of an FPC(Flexible Printed Circuits) including a meander wiring portion and acapacity loading portion. The GPS antenna 115 having such aconfiguration is arranged at a position closer to the side surface ofthe information processing terminal 1 than the speaker box 332 as shownin FIG. 35. The GPS antenna 115 and the substrate 402 of the substrateblock 334 are connected by a wiring 411, and GND of the substrate 402 isused as an antenna ground plane.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a wiring example of the BT/Wi-Fi antenna104.

As shown in FIG. 36, the BT/Wi-Fi antenna 104 is constituted of an FPCincluding a U-turn-type wiring. As shown in FIG. 37, the BT/Wi-Fiantenna 104 having such a configuration is provided at a position closeto the side surface of the information processing terminal 1 while beingdeviated from the speaker box 332. A GND portion of the FPC constitutingthe BT/Wi-Fi antenna 104 is adhered onto the speaker box 332 to be usedas an antenna ground plane. The BT/Wi-Fi antenna 104 and the substrate402 of the substrate block 334 are mutually connected by a coaxial wire412, and power is supplied through the coaxial wire 412.

7. Others

<7-1. Configuration Example of Computer>

The series of processing described above can be executed either byhardware or software. When executing the series of processing bysoftware, programs configuring the software are installed in a computerincorporated into dedicated hardware, a general-purpose personalcomputer, or the like from a program recording medium.

FIG. 38 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of hardwareof a computer that executes the series of processing by programs.

A CPU 1001, a ROM 1002, and a RAM 1003 are connected to one another viaa bus 1004.

An input/output interface 1005 is further connected to the bus 1004.Connected to the input/output interface 1005 are an input unit 1006constituted of a keyboard, a mouse, and the like and an output unit 1007constituted of a display, a speaker, and the like. Also connected to theinput/output interface 1005 are a storage unit 1008 constituted of ahard disk, a nonvolatile memory, and the like, a communication unit 1009constituted of a network interface and the like, and a drive 1010 thatdrives a removable medium 1011.

In the computer configured as described above, the CPU 1001 carries outthe series of processing described above by loading the programs storedin the storage unit 1008 to the RAM 1003 via the input/output interface1005 and the bus 1004 and executing them, for example.

The programs to be executed by the CPU 1001 are recorded onto theremovable medium 1011 or provided via wired or wireless transmissionmedia such as a local area network, the Internet, and digital broadcastto be installed in the storage unit 1008, for example.

It should be noted that the programs to be executed by the computer maybe programs in which processes are carried out in time series in theorder described in the specification or programs in which the processesare carried out in parallel or at necessary timings such as wheninvoked. Further, the processing described above may be carried out by aplurality of computers cooperating with one another. One or a pluralityof computers carrying out the processing described above configure acomputer system.

It should be noted that the system used in the specification refers toan assembly of a plurality of constituent elements (apparatuses, modules(components), etc.), and whether all the constituent elements areaccommodated in the same casing is irrelevant. Therefore, a plurality ofapparatuses that are accommodated in different casings and connected toone another via a network and a single apparatus in which a plurality ofmodules are accommodated in one casing are both referred to as system.

An embodiment of the present technology is not limited to theembodiments described above and can be variously modified withoutdeparting from the gist of the present technology.

For example, the present technology may take a cloud computingconfiguration in which one function is assigned to and processed by aplurality of apparatuses cooperating with one another via a network.

Moreover, the steps described above with reference to the flowchart cannot only be executed by one apparatus but also be assigned to andexecuted by a plurality of apparatuses.

Furthermore, when a plurality of processes are included in one step, theplurality of processes included in that one step can not only beexecuted by one apparatus but also be assigned to and executed by aplurality of apparatuses.

<7-2. Combination Example of Configurations>

The present technology can also take the following configurations.

(1)

An information processing apparatus including;

an acquisition unit configured to acquire activity informationassociated with a user situation; and

a control unit configured to control a capture angle of an image basedon the activity information associated with the user situation,

wherein the acquisition unit and the control unit are each implementedvia at least one processor.

(2)

The information processing apparatus according to (1),

wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image by varying at least one of an angle of a lens of animager configured to capture the image and a focal distance of the lens.

(3)

The information processing apparatus according to (1) or (2),

wherein the acquisition unit is further configured to acquire the usersituation on the basis of a detection result obtained by a sensor.

(4)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (3),further including the sensor, wherein the information processingapparatus further includes a terminal worn on a part of the user, thepart being lower than a head of the user.

(5)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (4),wherein the information processing apparatus further includes a casingconfigured by connecting units on both sides of the informationprocessing apparatus with a curved band and is worn by being hung on aneck of the user.

(6)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (5),further including an imager configured to capture at least a front viewbeing seen from the user wearing the information processing apparatus.

(7)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (6),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image by varying an angle of a lens of the imager arrangedon an inner side of an opening formed in a casing.

(8)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (7),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the imager notto expose the lens from the opening when not performing imaging.

(9)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (8),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image by varying a cut out image region from the image.

(10)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (9),wherein the user situation further includes at least a standing stateand a vehicle-riding state.

(11)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (10),wherein the user situation further includes a walking state as thestanding state.

(12)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (11),wherein the user situation further includes a state where the user isriding a bicycle as the vehicle-riding state.

(13)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (12),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image based on a posture of the information processingapparatus.

(14)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (13),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image based on a wearing position of the informationprocessing apparatus.

(15)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (14),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image based on a movement velocity of the informationprocessing apparatus.

(16)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (15),wherein the sensor includes an inertial sensor.

(17)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (16),wherein the control unit is further configured to control the captureangle of the image to be a predetermined number of degrees above areference angle sensed by the inertial sensor,

wherein the predetermined number of degrees being different depending onthe user situation.

(18)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (17),wherein the reference angle corresponds to a gravity accelerationdirection.

(19)

The information processing apparatus according to any of (1) to (18),

wherein the sensor includes a biological sensor.

(20)

A control method, the method being executed via at least one processor,and including:

acquiring activity information associated with a user situation; andcontrolling a capture angle of an image based on the activityinformation associated with the user situation.

(21)

A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a programwhich, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to execute amethod, the method including:

acquiring information associated with a user situation; and

controlling an angle of an image based on the information associatedwith the user situation.

(22)

An information processing apparatus, including:

an acquisition unit that acquires behavioral state informationindicating a behavioral state of a user; and

a control unit that controls an angle of view of an acquired imageaccording to the behavioral state information.

(23)

The information processing apparatus according to (22), in which thecontrol unit controls the angle of view by varying at least one of anangle of a lens of a photographing unit that photographs the image and afocal distance of the lens.

(24)

The information processing apparatus according to (22) or (23), in whichthe acquisition unit acquires the behavioral state of the user on thebasis of a detection result obtained by a sensor.

(25)

The information processing apparatus according to (24), furtherincluding the sensor,

in which the information processing apparatus is a terminal worn on apart of the user, the part being lower than a head of the user.

(26)

The information processing apparatus according to (25), in which theinformation processing apparatus includes a casing configured byconnecting units on both sides by a curved band and is worn by beinghung from a neck of the user.

(27)

The information processing apparatus according to any one of (22) to(26), further including

a photographing unit that includes a front direction of the user in aphotographing direction, the front direction seen from the user wearingthe information processing apparatus.

(28)

The information processing apparatus according to (27), in which thecontrol unit controls the angle of view by varying an angle of a lens ofthe photographing unit arranged on an inner side of an opening formed ina casing.

(29)

The information processing apparatus according to (28), in which thecontrol unit controls the photographing unit not to expose the lens fromthe opening when not performing photographing.

(30)

The information processing apparatus according to (22), in which thecontrol unit controls the angle of view by varying a cutout range of aphotographed image.

(31)

The information processing apparatus according to any one of (22) to(30), in which the control unit controls the angle of view according tothe behavioral state including at least an upright state and avehicle-riding state.

(32)

The information processing apparatus according to (31), in which thebehavioral state includes a walking state as the upright state.

(33)

The information processing apparatus according to (31), in which thebehavioral state includes a state where the user is riding a bicycle asthe vehicle-riding state.

(34)

The information processing apparatus according to any one of (22) to(33), in which the control unit controls the angle of view also on thebasis of a posture of the information processing apparatus.

(35)

The information processing apparatus according to any one of (22) to(34), in which the control unit controls the angle of view also on thebasis of a wearing position of the information processing apparatus.

(36)

The information processing apparatus according to any one of (22) to(35), in which the control unit controls the angle of view also on thebasis of a movement velocity of the information processing apparatus.

(37)

The information processing apparatus according to (25), in which thesensor is an inertial sensor.

(38)

The information processing apparatus according to (25), in which thesensor is a biological sensor.

(39)

A control method, including:

acquiring behavioral state information indicating a behavioral state ofa user; and controlling an angle of view of an acquired image accordingto the behavioral state information.

(40)

A program that causes a computer system to execute processing includingthe steps of:

acquiring behavioral state information indicating a behavioral state ofa user; and controlling an angle of view of an acquired image accordingto the behavioral state information.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

-   1 information processing terminal-   11 band portion-   12 right-hand side unit-   13 left-hand side unit-   52 camera module-   101 application processor-   131 behavioral state acquisition unit-   132 angle-of-view control unit-   133 photograph control unit 133

The invention claimed is:
 1. An information processing apparatus,comprising: a sensor configured to detect an external environment of theinformation processing apparatus and a situation of the informationprocessing apparatus, wherein the sensor includes an inertial sensorconfigured to detect a reference angle; and at least one processorconfigured to: acquire a user situation based on a detection result ofthe sensor; acquire activity information associated with the usersituation; and adjust a capture angle of an image to a specific numberof degrees above the reference angle based on the activity informationassociated with the user situation.
 2. The information processingapparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an imager configuredto capture the image, wherein the at least one processor is furtherconfigured to adjust the capture angle of the image based on a variationin at least one of an angle of a lens of the imager or a focal distanceof the lens.
 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim1, further comprising a terminal that is wearable on a part of a user,wherein the part of the user is lower than a head of the user.
 4. Theinformation processing apparatus according to claim 3, furthercomprising a casing and a curved band, wherein the casing includesconnecting units on both sides of the curved band, and the informationprocessing apparatus is wearable around a neck of the user.
 5. Theinformation processing apparatus according to claim 1, furthercomprising an imager configured to capture the image, wherein the imagecorresponds to a front view that is viewable by a user of theinformation processing apparatus.
 6. The information processingapparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a casing thatincludes an opening, wherein the at least one processor is furtherconfigured to adjust the capture angle of the image based on a variationin an angle of a lens of the imager, and the lens of the imager is on aninner side of the opening.
 7. The information processing apparatusaccording to claim 6, wherein the at least one processor is furtherconfigured to control the imager to hide the lens from the opening whenimaging is not executed by the imager.
 8. The information processingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user situation includes atleast one of an upright state or a vehicle-riding state.
 9. Theinformation processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein theupright state is a walking state.
 10. The information processingapparatus according to claim 8, wherein the vehicle-riding state is abicycle-riding state of a user.
 11. The information processing apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the at least one processor is furtherconfigured to adjust the capture angle of the image based on a postureof the information processing apparatus.
 12. The information processingapparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one processor isfurther configured to adjust the capture angle of the image based on awearing position of the information processing apparatus.
 13. Theinformation processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the atleast one processor is further configured to adjust the capture angle ofthe image based on a movement velocity of the information processingapparatus.
 14. The information processing apparatus according to claim1, wherein the reference angle corresponds to a gravity accelerationdirection.
 15. The information processing apparatus according to claim1, wherein the sensor further includes a biological sensor.
 16. Acontrol method, comprising: in an information processing apparatus thatincludes at least one processor and a sensor: detecting, by the sensor,an external environment of the information processing apparatus and asituation of the information processing apparatus, wherein the sensorincludes an inertial sensor; detecting, by the inertial sensor, areference angle; acquiring, by the at least one processor, a usersituation based on a detection result of the sensor; acquiring, by theat least one processor, activity information associated with the usersituation; and adjusting, by the at least one processor, a capture angleof an image to a specific number of degrees above the reference anglebased on the activity information associated with the user situation.17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, whereinthe at least one processor is further configured to adjust the captureangle of the image based on one of an increase or a decrease of a rangeof a frame associated with a cut out image region of the image.